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Stage 4 Colon Cancer at 36: Kasey Shares Why Early Screening Can Save Lives

Kasey S., Colon Cancer, Stage 4

Symptoms: Extreme abdominal cramping, mucus in stool, rectal bleeding, black stool, fatigue, weight fluctuations, skin issues (guttate psoriasis)
Treatments: Surgeries (colectomy & salpingectomy), chemotherapy

Stage 4 Colon Cancer at 36: Kasey Shares Why Early Screening Can Save Lives

Kasey’s world changed when she was diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer. In March 2024, her cancer was initially diagnosed as stage 2A, but by October, it had metastasized. It was unexpected and unnerving, something she never thought she’d have to face at 36 years old. Yet, through it all, Kasey fought to stay informed, advocate for herself, and share her story to help others recognize symptoms and push for the care they deserve.

Interviewed by: Taylor Scheib
Edited by: Katrina Villareal

Kasey’s first symptoms started in 2021 after giving birth to her third son. She experienced extreme abdominal cramping, which she initially thought was hormonal. By 2023, the pain persisted and she sought answers from her primary care doctor. The road to her stage 4 colon cancer diagnosis wasn’t straightforward — Kasey’s symptoms were attributed to various conditions, including Hashimoto’s disease and guttate psoriasis. Despite dietary changes and lifestyle adjustments, new symptoms emerged, including mucus in her stool and, eventually, rectal bleeding. Even then, the doctors dismissed her concerns and delayed her colonoscopy for nine weeks. When she finally had the procedure in February 2024, doctors found a large mass. Almost immediately, they told her that it was cancer.

Kasey S. feature profile

She underwent surgery in March, during which the surgeon removed 55% of her colon. While her lymph nodes tested negative, Kasey knew she had to make tough treatment decisions. Her doctor recommended the Signatera test, which checks for circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA). It came back negative, leading her doctors to advise against chemotherapy. But life threw another curveball — by July, Kasey discovered she was pregnant. A routine blood test revealed skyrocketing CEA levels, a marker for cancer. Heartbreakingly, she had to make the devastating choice to terminate her pregnancy to ensure she could monitor and treat her cancer. In September, scans confirmed progression to stage 4 colon cancer.

Since then, Kasey has been undergoing chemotherapy while maintaining her career, caring for her family, and finding strength in her faith. She has learned the importance of self-advocacy, pushing for screenings, and questioning medical assumptions. Through social media, she shares tips and insights on navigating treatment for stage 4 colon cancer, hoping to educate and empower others.

Kasey’s message is clear: cancer doesn’t define her. It’s a challenge, but it doesn’t mean that life stops. She wants people to understand that stage 4 colon cancer doesn’t always mean the worst, that community and support make a difference, and that listening to your body and pushing for answers can be lifesaving. Her story isn’t just about illness — it’s about resilience, awareness, and the power of taking control of your health.

Watch Kasey’s story to find out more about:

  • How a delayed colonoscopy changed everything — why early screenings are crucial.
  • How Kasey fought for answers when doctors dismissed her symptoms.
  • The emotional and medical challenges of pregnancy after a cancer diagnosis.
  • Why self-advocacy is key: “If I hadn’t pushed, I wouldn’t be here.”
  • The surprising lessons cancer taught her about life, family, and faith.

  • Name: Kasey S.
  • Age at Diagnosis:
    • 36
  • Diagnosis:
    • Colon Cancer
  • Staging:
    • Stage 2A in March 2024, which metastasized to stage 4 in October 2024
  • Symptoms:
    • Extreme abdominal cramping
    • Mucus in stool
    • Rectal bleeding
    • Black stool
    • Fatigue
    • Weight fluctuations
    • Skin issues: guttate psoriasis
  • Treatments:
    • Surgery: Colectomy: removed 55% of right & transverse colon; salpingectomy: tubal removal
    • Chemotherapy
Kasey S.
Kasey S.
Kasey S.
Kasey S.
Kasey S.
Kasey S.
Kasey S.

This interview has been edited for clarity. This is not medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider to make treatment decisions.


Kasey S. feature profile
Thank you for sharing your story, Kasey!

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Treatments: Surgeries (colectomy & salpingectomy), chemotherapy


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